Promotion of rational use of drugs: An experience in the Family Health Strategy

Objective: To describe experiences on rational use of drugs originated in the activities of a university extension program. Data Synthesis: The activities were conducted at a family health unit of a city in the state of Bahia, in the period from August 2010 to August 2013, involving the family health team, users (adults, elderly, and pregnant women), students and professors of a state university. Systematic observation, home visits, thematic workshops, waiting rooms, scientific events and research collaboration were held. The activities were developed in an articulate manner and had four objects: rational drug use by the elderly; rational dispensing of drugs in primary care; rational use of psychotropic drugs; and rational prescription of medications. Conclusion: The experiences revealed that the issue of drugs has not been inserted in the health team’s work process. The extension activities, however, may have contributed to reflections on practices as well as to the development of skills and potentialities of those involved, aiming at the improvement of prescription, dispensing and use of medicines in the community.